7 of the Best Activities to Take Your Toddler to in Ontario
Squeeze the most out of the summer with ideas the whole family will love
Squeeze the most out of the summer with ideas the whole family will love
Whether it’s a rainy day or a brilliant sunshine-kissed afternoon, there’s tons of fun to be had with kids aged two and up across Ontario on every budget. Go on, get planning—the good times await.
With over 6,000 artifacts in its varied collection, the Stones ’N Bones Museum has plenty of gape-worthy treasures—including shark skeletons, preserved insects and gemstones—spread over 10,000 square feet.
When: Wednesdays through Sundays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (all year round)
Admission: Adults: $7; children 12 and under: $3
Get little book lovers inspired by the exhibits based on classic storybooks—from Hansel and Gretel to Snow White—peppered throughout the park before cooling down on the waterslides.
When: Schedule varies, but open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. most summer days
Admission: Ages 2 and under: free; ages 3 and up: $22
With servings of sticky ribs and live music, this is the perfect outing for parents and tots. When bellies are full, be sure to pop by the children’s play area and craft market.;
When: June 16 to 18: Friday 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Woodbine Beach Park
Admission: Free
This eclectic five-day fest hosts singer-songwriter Sarah Harmer and beloved children’s music performer Fred Penner. Peruse the artisan fair and satisfy taste buds with food from local vendors
When: June 21 to 25
Where: McBurney Park
Admission: Free
All aboard! Celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday with a trip on Steam Engine No. 9, which has been huffing and puffing since 1923. Get the kids fueled up with hot dogs and buttered popcorn at the station before jumping on board.
When: July 1 and 2. Train leaves at 2 p.m.
Where: St. Jacobs Market Station
Admission: Ages 2 and under: free; ages 2 and up: $25
Live music will pour from several stages at this eco-friendly grassroots music fest with a huge lineup of musicians including Billy Bragg and Lowest of the Low. Visit the Rainbow Stage (children’s area) for high-energy shows, face painting and a parade. When the munchies strike, find everything from Belgian waffles to organic ice cream at the food bazaar.
When: July 14 to 16: Friday 4.30 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Guelph Lake Conservation Area
Admission: Day passes: $57 to $85; kids 12 and under: free
Witness master sculptors creating magical shapes out of sand, from sea creatures to intricate castles. Participate in sculpting lessons, visit the inflatable park (requires $5 wristband purchase), stocked with bouncy castles and more, and bring a blanket to watch this year’s outdoor feature film, Moana.
When: August 5: 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Where: Cobourg Beach
Admission: Free
Just became new parents? Don’t let your little bundle deter you from globe-trotting. Here’s what you need to know when travelling with a baby.